Page 40 - OHS, September 2023

SUMMER HAZARDS Sun Safety: What Employers and Workers Should Know Summer is just hitting its stride in many parts of the country. What steps should be taken when working under the sun? BY ROBERT YANIZ JR. VladisChern/Shutterstock.com In the summertime, much of the focus is on the adverse effects extreme heat can have and how workers can protect 1 themselves . Still, it’s important not to underestimate the blazing threat the sun it- self can pose on the outdoor workforce. To that end, let’s review some strategies both employers and their workers should know to keep safe while working outside. For Employers Understand the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) rays. A workplace can be subject to extreme heat regardless of sun exposure. But employers should remember that in- visible UV radiation is present on both bright, sunny days and ones filled with gray skies. According to the Environmen- tal Protection Agency2, UV radiation is actually comprised of three types of rays, which can lead to sunburn, dehydration and even skin cancer. Know which roles involve lots of sun exposure. Before employers can protect their workers, they should assess which jobs require a lot of sun exposure. The National Institutes of Health3 argues that occupations with high exposure to UV rays include fishing, while agricultural and construction jobs and military service involve medium levels of sun exposure. Regardless, employers should know their workers’ level of UV risk. Provide sun protection measures to workers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention4 advises employers to offer sun protection for workers. Its suggestions include the use of tents, shelters and cool- ing stations at outdoor worksites. Even a step as simple as scheduling regular times for workers to take a break from the sun or apply additional sunscreen can go a long way toward boosting workplace safety. Account for the sun when building workflows. For outdoor workers, avoiding the sun altogether might be an impossi- bility. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health5 recom- mends that employers consider schedul- ing outdoor work for the time of day when sunlight is less prevalent. For the most part, sun exposure is at its strongest from late morning until roughly mid-afternoon. Empower employees with sun safety training. Companies can also add a sun safety program to their employees’ required training. This is an effective way to provide workers with the knowledge and tools they need to recognize the signs of overexpo- sure to UV rays and how to keep them- selves safe. The National Cancer Institute’s Evidence-Based Cancer Control Programs6 recommends several sun safety programs. For Workers Make sunscreen part of the workplace routine. The National Institute for Oc- cupational Safety and Health7 acknowl- edges sunscreen is a primary weapon to minimize the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. But using sunscreen correctly is as important as applying it at all. Be sure to apply a minimum of SPF 15 as directed, and consider also factors such as humidity and perspiration. Wear appropriate clothing to repel sunlight. Another smart move to keep sunlight at bay is to dress with sun expo- sure in mind. This includes wearing a UV- blocking hat — a wide brim is best — and sunglasses. Likewise, OSHA8 recommends tight clothing, preferably designed to repel the sun. Check to see if light can perme- ate the cloth, and if it does, it might not provide the protection workers need for extended sun exposure. Determine individual risk. Too much time in the sun isn’t good for anyone, but some people are predisposed to develop skin cancer or other illnesses tied to UV radiation. According to the National Can- cer Institute9, risk factors that might en- hance someone’s UV sensitivity include a fair complexion, light-colored eyes and hair and family history. Knowing individ- ual risk factors can help workers prepare. Conduct regular skin checks to prevent illness. Even when taking the necessary pre- cautions, it’s a good idea for people working outdoors to keep a close eye on their own skin. This might include frequent check-ups with a dermatologist. But workers can also perform skin checks at home. The Centers for Disease Control10 suggests regularly checking for moles or any irregularities, as these can be early signs of trouble. Coordinate with co-workers to secure safety protocol. Employers should already be taking steps to minimize the chance workers will fall prey to UV rays. How- ever, if a company or direct supervisor isn’t taking action, it never hurts to start the conversation. The World Health Orga- nization11 is actively committed to raising awareness of the effects of UV radiation. So, workers should advocate for them- selves in the workplace as well. Robert Yaniz Jr. is the Content Editor of Occupational Health & Safety. He can be reached at ryaniz@1105media.com. REFERENCES 1. azqs.short.gy/vDlch6 2. azqs.short.gy/1BntUz 3. azqs.short.gy/VwukCc 4. azqs.short.gy/VbYfI6 5. azqs.short.gy/qolZHf 6. azqs.short.gy/tiSWRm 7. azqs.short.gy/ewGElX 8. azqs.short.gy/lFmea4 9. azqs.short.gy/wvhKVj 10. azqs.short.gy/CwC0PO 11. azqs.short.gy/l4ZzmU 40 Occupational Health & Safety | SEPTEMBER 2023 www.ohsonline.com